Just picked up a Graflite Jr. 2 cell unit (cat #2745) for a Speed Graphic. Just wondering what type of flash bulbs this takes. I would be using this for general photography (indoor + outdoor fill flash, etc.) as opposed to formal studio work.

I'm not familiar with the Graflites. as I prefer the Heiland flash guns. However, it's very basic. If you want to use bayonette base bulbs you will want #5 or #25 bulbs, blue coated for color, clear for B&W. If you want to use the screw base bulbs you will want something like Press 40 or #11. Any bulb with the screw base will work in the screw base flash socket. There are many. #2, #22 and #31 are for focal plane shutter use. They have a long illumination peak to keep things lit up while the shutter curtain travels. Same rule as above, blue coated bulbs for color film. There are guide numbers available for flash bulbs but be prepared to do your own testing._________________Glenn

Check your numbers again. The Catalog No. for a 2-call Graflite Jr., with 5" reflector and Universal Mounting Bracket, was 2850. The battery case only was No. 2770.

The Cat. No. you gave is the no. for the 5" reflector unit only. With that unit, you can only use bayonet bulbs. A 7" reflector was available, the complete unit having the No. 2747. It comes with a separate socket and you'd need that for screw mount bulbs. A 7" reflector alone with your battery case won't do it.

I own a Graflite Jr. 2-cell w/5" reflector (thanks to troublemaker!), and 93-count-'em-93 #5 and #5B "blubs." I also snagged a B-C unit off the 'bay, and ordered a 22.5V Eveready 415 battery from the Shack. All of this makes absolutely no economic sense whatsoever at all, but so what? Can't wait to show up at the next Reading (PA) Air Show with my Century and flash, and wow the guys and gals with a real period set-up.

Lots of luck finding the blubs, pmanzari, and when you do be prepared to pay some $$ for them. They'll all be NOS since AFAIK nobody today is making these things (not sure if that Irish firm is making #5s).